Richard Paul Karpowich

Richard Paul Karpowich, 72, of Drums, passed away Nov. 21 at his home.

Born in Hazleton, he was the son of the late William A. and Cecelia (Kochie) Karpowich.

During the Vietnam War, Richard served as a specialist fourth class in the United States Army from 1967 until 1973. He served with the 510th Engineer Company in Pleiku, Vietnam from early January 1969 to early January 1970, and was honorably discharged, receiving the following medals and decorations: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, two overseas bars, and a one-year safe driving award.

Most of his life was spent woodworking at his father's business, William A. Karpowich and Sons Construction business; however, for the last ten years he owned his own construction company.

Richard was a member of the Immaculate Conception Parish at St. Ann's Church, Freeland, and a life member of both the American Legion, Post 473, and Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 5010.

He loved to fish, enjoyed working with wood, gardening and cheering on his dear Philadelphia Eagles, never failing to miss a Sunday watching the NASCAR races with his eyes closed.

Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, were his wife, Claire A. Karpowich, who died this year; a son, MSG Paul D. Karpowich; and brothers, Victor and Joseph Karpowich.

Surviving are a son, Phillip D. Karpowich and wife, Holly, Portland, Ore.; daughters, Kristen R. Holloway and husband, Johnathan, Severn, MD; Joanna C. Karpowich, Hazleton; brothers, William A. Karpowich, Jr., Freeland; Ronald T. Karpowich, Freeland, David A. Karpowich, Freeland, Robert J. Karpowich and wife, Linda, Hazle Twp.; John M. Karpowich and wife, Carmella, Freeland; and a sister, Mary B. Verbonitz, Freeland. Also surviving are grandchildren, Nataleigh Moore, Jordan Holloway, Dominic Holloway, Gianna Holloway, Gabrielle Barna and Paul Holloway; many nieces and nephews; longtime caregivers, Rita Fisher and Jacquelyn Getz; and his beloved dog, Paco Wallace.

The Rev. Michael Kloton will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday,  in the Immaculate Conception Parish at St. Ann's Church, 898 Centre St., Freeland.

Burial will be in St. Ann's Cemetery, Freeland. Family and friends may pay their respects from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday in the church. Donations to: Community Services for Sight, 4 Brookhill Road, Sugarloaf, PA 18249, would be appreciated. McHugh-Wilczek Funeral Home, 249 Centre St., Freeland, is in charge of arrangements.